Partial dash lights off

It has been going on at least 6 months that my dash lights are off. The dimmer switch was changed and it did nothing. all The lights directly in front of the driver are out and three of the 4 are on on the 4 buttons controlling the flashers, rear wiper trouble light. It was checked by someone who said all the bulb were fine. For a very long time half of the lights worked and also the lighting around the blower heating fan assembly are working fine. I have checked fuses and they seem to be fine along with tail lights. If I have to bring it in again it will cost a fortune. I am so handy but frustrated I can't fix it. Any suggestions????

Did you look at the thread, labeled Dash Lights (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=357711)?? It has a link to "how to" remove the dash trim bezel and instrument cluster so you can check yourself to see if the lights are good or not. Best bet is to get some replacements and just swap out all the suspect bulbs while you have the dash apart.

Would I have to unhook the airbags? Do you also know exactly which fuse would control the dash lights or do you think since some of them are actually on a fuse should be out of the picture? It really is that simple to get the trim pulled off the dash/ I have taken the kick bottom panel off before but could never figure out how to get the trim out.

no do not disconnect air bags do not pull steering wheel off
all illumination in dash are powered by the same fuse after you remove the screws from knee bolster pull it off there are some clips that hold it up but it will come off oh be sure to remove the screws that hod the hood release handle under the dash

then do you think since some of the dash lights are on there is a good chance that actually the bulbs are blown? Someone checked them and said thy were fine awhile back but?????

are we speaking about the trim when you mentioned clips? The trim has been the problem as far as getting it off. The steering wheel has some play also up and down and the casing around steering wheel is loose. Is that something I shouldn't tackle?

The trim you need to remove is the black trim that goes around the instrument cluster, radio, etc. There should be two screws that screw into the dash right above and on either side of the steering wheel, one above the stereo, and so on. You do not have to remove the grey housing around the steering wheel.

I forgot to mention I have a 97 rodeo 5 speed 4 cycl.